Graphic Design

This is an archived copy of the 2020-2021 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.mtmercy.edu.

The Art and Design program offers courses that provide students with the technical and aesthetic instruction necessary for visual expression of all types. An environment conducive to the student’s total involvement as a developing artist is provided with offerings in art history and appreciation, studio work in fine arts, and graphic design. The Graphic Design major provides a strong background for commercial or applied art careers. It is also possible to minor in Art to include coursework in graphic design.

The program maintains studios for sculpture, ceramics, drawing, painting, textiles and printmaking. Photographic darkrooms, and a Macintosh computer lab, with 16 networked machines, support the program. The Janalyn Hanson White Art Gallery schedules professional exhibitions and visiting artists throughout the year.

Transfer students in Graphic Design may be asked to submit a portfolio of work to the chairperson to identify students' best placement in Art and Design classes.

Career Opportunities

Professional artist; graphic designer; art teacher, grades K-12; web designer; basis for graduate work in visual arts; preparation for work in museums and educational agencies, media, publications and various businesses; government; or public agencies requiring graphic arts. Optional internships prepare students for employment.

Student Portfolio Review

During the Fall semester of students' junior year at Mount Mercy, Graphic Design majors are required to have a portfolio review to check progress and be advised on continuing in the Art & Design Program. The portfolio will be the major consideration, but the grade point average in art courses and the grade point average in all courses also will be reviewed. By the end of the sophomore year all Art/Design-related majors should have taken the foundational art curriculum courses: AR 102 Drawing I, AR 103 Art & Graphic Design Fundamentals and at least two other studio or graphic design courses. This will give students an opportunity to assemble a varied portfolio for review.

Student ePortfolio

Art and Design students maintain an ePortfolio for each year of their progress toward a degree. The ePortfolio provides evidence that students are meeting the Program's goals and objectives. The ePortfolio is available through the Brightspace Learning Management System.

Admission to the Internship

Students should apply for an internship in the winter preceding the internship desired. Deadline dates will be posted. Students should meet the requirements for the internship before making application. Application forms are available from the Art and Design faculty, who make the admission to the internship decision. Acceptance into the internship is based on the following:

The minimal admission prerequisite requires completion of the foundational Art & Design courses: AR 102 Drawing I, AR 103 Art & Graphic Design Fundamentals with grades of no less than C (2.00) with a cumulative grade point average of no less than 2.00.
An internship in Graphic Design requires that in addition to the minimal admissions prerequisites AR 120 Visual Technology, AR 130 Graphic Design I, AR 231 Graphic Design II: Web & Motion Graphics and be completed or taken concurrently with the internships with grades of no less than a C (2.00) with a cumulative grade point average of no less than 2.00.
A brief summary stating why the student wishes to participate in the internship.
Possession of personal qualities considered necessary for a successful art professional including personal and professional integrity; a demonstrated ability to organize work and to work under the pressure of deadlines; craftsmanship in producing artwork; creativity; assertiveness; clarity in speaking, writing, and accurate spelling; and a willingness to cooperate with others and to accept the benefit from criticism.
Presentation of a professional quality portfolio that includes art work relative to the internship is desired.

Decisions of Art and Design faculty shall be transmitted to the applicants and to other appropriate persons at Mount Mercy promptly and in writing.

Students whose applications are refused may discuss the matter with the Art and Design Program Coordinator. Further recourse may be had by contacting the Chair of the Department of Communication, Literature and the Arts.

See the Graduate section of this Catalog for more information on Graduate programs offered at Mount Mercy.

Courses

AR 101 Introduction To Art: 3 semester hours

A general survey of art from a historical and aesthetic frame of reference. The course will include lecture/discussion and studio projects designed to increase understanding and appreciation for the value of art regardless of the cultures, time period, or individuals from which it may have come. One required field trip. This course satisfies the Expressive Arts - Fine Art Core Curriculum Domain. ($15 lab fee).

AR 102 Drawing I: 3 semester hours

The course will provide an introduction to the concepts, materials, and techniques of drawing. Instruction and practice in basic media will increase seeing ability, visualization, communication, and personal expression. Most drawing is done from life and emphasis is placed on visual communication. Since this is a required course for Art & Design majors the priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. Lecture/critique: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. No prerequisites. ($50 lab fee).

AR 103 Art & Graphic Design Fundamentals: 3 semester hours

A study of the elements and principles of design in two- and three- dimensional works based upon design found both in nature and human-made art, which provides the student with opportunities for creative application. The design problems cover line, value, texture, color, and space. Various traditional and non-traditional techniques are used. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. Since this is a required course for Art & Design majors the priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. No prerequisites. ($20 lab fee).

AR 105 Introduction to the Studio: 3 semester hours

This course introduces students to broad studio techniques applicable to many branches of Studio Art and Graphic Design. Practical skills and solutions to the construction, fabrication, and presentation of creative work are explored in depth, and in a hands-on format. Knowledge gained in this course will prepare students to be successful in future Art, Graphic Design, and Art Education courses, and as practicing artists and designers following their degree. Artist interviews, career exploration, and field trips to area studios, museums, and professional arts organizations are an essential element of this course. No prerequisites. ($50 lab fee).

AR 106 Photography I: 3 semester hours

An introduction to photography. The course covers cameras and photographic techniques, composition, processing and darkroom printing, lighting and matting photographs and an introduction to digital photography. A broad overview of the work of accomplished photographers, exploring many different styles and approaches will be presented along with the history of photography. Assignments stress composition, lighting, documentation, and experimentation. The course is recommended for students with little or no photography experience. Students should supply their own digital camera. A limited number of film cameras are available for loan. Students supply their own film. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. Since this is a required course for Art & Design majors the priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. No prerequisites. ($50 lab fee).

AR 109 Art Environments: 3 semester hours

This interdisciplinary arts course is for both non-Art & Design and Art & Design majors. Students will use a variety of non-traditional media and techniques to stretch their definition of the visual arts. Emphasis will be placed on studio experimentation with the arts of time, space, and concept. Students will use found materials, video, film, sound, language, and performance art to create objects, environments, and events. Emphasis is placed on questioning the processes by which meaning is constructed. Students interested in experimental music, writing, theatre, and visual arts (but who have no previous experience) are encouraged to enroll. Lecture/critique: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. No prerequisites.($30 lab fee).

AR 120 Visual Technology: 3 semester hours

This course will emphasize fluency in industry-standard software tools relating to graphic design and computer-based illustration. Course will focus on raster image editing, vector-based illustration, and page layout. Peripherally, students will explore technical challenges such as server-based file management, font usage, and proper PDF proofing strategies. No prerequisites. ($25 lab fee).

AR 130 Graphic Design I: 3 semester hours

This course will explore into two-dimensional design beginning with conceptual foundations and continuing through to methods of practical application. A foundation of design language and space relationships is allied with creative problem-solving. Page layout, logo design, typography, computer graphics, and web page design are some of the practical areas covered. Since this is a required course for Graphic Design majors the priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Graphic Design majors, 2) other Art & Design majors, 3) other Art & Design minors, and 4) non-Art & Design majors. Lecture/critique and studio: four hours per week. Prerequisite: AR 120 ($25 lab fee).

AR 141 Painting I: 3 semester hours

This course is an introductory course in oil and acrylic painting. Students will investigate both traditional and non-traditional solutions to compositional, technical, and aesthetic problems in painting. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. No prerequisites. Since this is a required course for Art & Design majors the priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. No prerequisites. ($90 lab fee).

AR 151 Printmaking I: 3 semester hours

Investigation of graphic processes including woodcut, collagraph, monotype and intaglio. Course includes development of the image in black and white and color. Since this is a required course for Art & Design majors the priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. Prerequisite: AR 102. ($90 lab fee).

AR 161 Ceramics I: 3 semester hours

An introductory course in the ceramic arts providing students with an opportunity to use clay as a three-dimensional medium for self-expression. Both hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques will be taught. Priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. No prerequisites. ($100 lab fee).

AR 171 Sculpture I: 3 semester hours

The study of three-dimensional art as a basis for artistic sculptural experiences in a variety of basic media. The three-dimensional works will be developed in both additive and subtractive approaches using various materials. Since this is a required course for Art & Design majors the priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. Lecture/critique: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. Prerequisite: sophomore standing and AR 103. ($100 lab fee).

AR 191 Jewelry: 3 semester hours

This course is an opportunity to create original adornment for covering the head to foot. It is designed to help beginners learn how to design and make jewelry from a variety of materials including metals, woods, and handmade papers. All the processes are based on hand construction that involves a minimum of hand tools. Attention will be given to the production of jewelry by various cultures and artists throughout the world. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. No prerequisites. ($70 lab fee).

AR 202 Drawing II: 3 semester hours

This course is an extension of Drawing I. An exploration of various traditional and non-traditional drawing media, as well as a continuation of the student's search for personal vision through direct observation, memory, fantasy, and media experimentation. Emphasis is placed on development of personal imagery and work from live models. Since this is a required course for Art & Design majors the priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. Prerequisite: AR 102. ($80 lab fee).

AR 206 Photography II: 3 semester hours

This course is an extension of Photography I. It is designed to increase artistic and technical ability in the black and white photographic medium and to further explore digital photography. Photo II also includes studio lighting techniques, copy work, photographic imagery on nontraditional materials, and an investigation of non-silver photographic processes. Recommended for Art & Design, Public Relations and Communication majors, and others interested in photography. Priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. Lecture and studio: five hours per week. Prerequisite: AR 106. ($55 lab fee).

AR 212 Art History I: 3 semester hours

This course is a survey of the major visual arts of the Western world from the prehistoric to the Gothic eras. Lecture: three hours per week. Prerequisite: sophomore standing and AR 101 or permission of the instructor. AR 212 and AR 213 may be taken in any order.

AR 213 Art History II: 3 semester hours

This course is a survey of the major visual arts of the Western world from Renaissance to Modernism. Prerequisite: sophomore standing and AR 101 or permission of the instructor. AR 212 and AR 213 may be taken in any order.

AR 216 History Of Non-Western Art: 3 semester hours

This survey course introduces non-Western cultural perspectives and artistic practices. Students will explore the major forms, styles, and purpose in the art and architecture of the Americas, Africa, India, China, Japan, Korea, and Australia and the Pacific Islands from prehistoric to contemporary periods. More than just studying the artworks themselves, students will gain an understanding of how these artworks are situated within the philosophical, religious, and political contexts of the cultures in which they were created. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing and AR 101, AR 212, AR 213, or permission of the instructor. Field trips are a required course component.

AR 220 Typography & Design: 3 semester hours

The focus of this course is on the design and use of type and reproduction methods. Type fonts, typesetting, printing methods and video generation are covered. A survey of lettering styles and type history is included. Projects designed to acquaint students with various ways of using type are an integral part of the course. No prerequisite, but priority in class registration is given to Art and Design, and Communication majors. ($25 lab fee).

AR 231 Graphic Design II: Web & Motion Graphics: 3 semester hours

Web and Motion Graphics builds on the software foundation learned in AR 250. Web and Motion Graphics focuses on software proficiency, specifically as it relates to web design and motion graphics production. Students will learn about web site organization, and web interface design/page design. Students will also receive an introduction to industry standard web animation and video editing software. Pre-requisite: AR 250 Advance Visual Technology. ($25 lab fee).

AR 241 Painting II: 3 semester hours

This course is an advanced study in painting and composition with an emphasis on experimentation in media, technique, and concept. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. Prerequisite: AR 141. Priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. ($40 lab fee).

AR 245 Relief Printmaking In Oaxaca, Mexico: 3 semester hours

Produce relief prints inspired by the rich cultural tradition and beauty of Oaxaca, Mexico. Students will observe and draw ruins at the archeological site of Monte Alban, artifacts at the regional museum and handsome handicrafts at the city markets. The drawings will be translated into relief prints by choosing from a variety of color processes including: the subtractive wood block, the multi-block linoleum, or cardboard collagraph. Students will also visit graphic arts galleries, museums, and artist's workshops. During their free time, students will have the opportunity to explore Oaxaca and the surrounding villages known for their handicrafts. No prerequisites. Travel costs required.

AR 250 Advanced Visual Technology: 3 semester hours

This course focuses on the further advancement of digital media tools including both hardware and software exploration, through the use of design, creation, and the web. Emphasis placed on creative concepts, information architecture, user experience, and site development. The course also encourages students to hybridize digital techniques with traditional analogue techniques in order to discover unique niches within their discipline. Prerequisite: AR 120.

AR 251 Printmaking II: 3 semester hours

This course is a continuation of study and investigation of graphic process including woodcut, collagraph, lithography, and all intaglio methods in both black and white and color. Investigation into the history and use of printmaking as an art form is required. Lecture one hour per week. Studio four hours per week. Prerequisite: AR 151. ($90 lab fee).

AR 261 Ceramics II: 3 semester hours

This intermediate-level ceramics course will provide students who have had a beginning ceramics course with further opportunity to use clay as a medium of self-expression. Students may work with hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques in creating both utilitarian and non-utilitarian ceramic objects. A variety of firing processes and glaze chemistry will be available. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. Prerequisite: AR 161. Priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. ($100 lab fee).

AR 271 Sculpture II: 3 semester hours

This is a course offering students an opportunity to develop further work in three dimensions. Various materials will be used. Growth in concepts and techniques is the heart of the work. Investigation into historical and contemporary sculptural work is party of the study. There are individual critiques with the instructor. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio Four hours per week. Prerequisite: AR 171. ($100 lab fee).

AR 280 Video on the Computer: 3 semester hours

This course is designed to acquaint students with video production and translation of video material into various presentation formats. A conceptual background and practical applications are interwoven to help understanding of the process. Topics included are organization of presentation and program material, visual communication principles, screen design and typography, video camera usage, video and audio recording techniques, creating and presentation. Recommended prerequisite: sophomore status. ($25 lab fee).

AR 290 Visual Arts Topics: 3 semester hours

This course allows examination of a specific visual art or art history topic. The course content and subtitles will vary at each presentation. Subjects as diverse as the interaction of color, 20th Century Painting, 19th and 20th Century Architecture and Mid-Eastern and Asian Art may be offered. A course with a different content may be repeated. Prerequisites: AR 101 or AR 212 or permission of the instructor.

AR 295 Survey Of Mexican Culture Today: 3 semester hours

Despite Mexico's proximity and its strong cultural influence on the southwestern United States, Mexico's Indian and Spanish traditions have made it a "distant neighbor." This course will attempt to bridge this gap between our two cultures with on-campus lectures on the history and art of Mexico followed by a 14 day travel experience to Mexico. During the Winter Term, students will travel to Mexico City, and Oaxaca. These Cities represent various aspects of Spanish colonial influence and will serve as a means to contrast large metropolitan centers with smaller scenic sites. Students will visit archaeological sites including Teotihuacan, Monte Alban and Maitla near Oaxaca. Students will be responsible for the completion of a course workbook and summary of required readings. Students also will have the opportunity to do a research paper or studio art project depending on one's interest. No prerequisites. Travel costs required.

AR 315 Contemporary Art and Theory: 3 semester hours

This course introduces students to worldwide contemporary artists, movements and the ideas that shaped them during the last fifty years. How have artists responded to cultural, social, economic and technological changes? What are the roles of art and artists right now? Life in the 21st century is increasingly complex as digitization and globalization force us to consider larger contexts in which art is made and viewed/used. We will explore some of these critical debates through visual lectures, readings, discussions, media presentations, and required field trips to cultural institutions. We'll examine contemporary art from a global perspective. Pre-requisite AR 213 or permission of instructor.

AR 331 Graphic Design III: 3 semester hours

This course is an extension of Graphic Design II with emphasis on refined design sense, creative solutions to design problems, and practical application. Artwork from conception to completion as printed work is the goal of each project. Layout techniques, computer page publication, photo-manipulation programs, illustration software, and web design are all used as vehicles to create work for the portfolio. Lecture: one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. Prerequisite: AR 231. ($25 Lab Fee).

AR 341 Painting III: 3 semester hours

This course is an advanced study of painting stressing independent work with an emphasis on creativity and critical thinking. Lecture one hour per week. Studio: four hours per week. Prerequisites: AR 141 and AR 241. Since this is a required course for Art & Design majors the priority for acceptance in this course is: 1) Art & Design majors, 2) Art & Design minors, and 3) non-Art & Design majors. ($40 lab fee).

AR 415 Art & Design Thesis: 3 semester hours

This is a course consisting of in-depth work on an aesthetic problem in the student's area of concentration. It is the examination of a total experience that establishes the basis for the aesthetic. Work is done independently with weekly group meetings and faculty checks of progress and portfolio development culminating in a thesis project and exhibition. Opportunities for participation in shows will be offered in the course. Prerequisite: All studio courses required for the major and sophomore/transfer student portfolio review. ($50 lab fee).

AR 425 Art & Design Internship: 3 semester hours

The internship is designed to give practical, on-the-job experience to complement academic studies in art and design. Students meet with their supervising instructor on a periodic basis and complete accompanying coursework in consultation with their instructor. The internship is graded as pass/fail. One credit hour = 40 hours of work at the internship site, up to a maximum of 6 credit hours. Prerequisite: A declared major in either Art or Graphic Design, junior status, and permission of the Art & Design Program Coordinator.

AR 445 Art & Design Independent Study: 3 semester hours

An independent study fosters independent creative work under the direction of an Art & Design instructor. Prerequisite: A declared major in either Art, Graphic Design or Art Education; junior status, completion of other courses in media of requested study; and, permission of the Art & Design Program Coordinator.

Major in Graphic Design

AR 102	Drawing I	3
AR 103	Art & Graphic Design Fundamentals	3
AR 106	Photography I	3
AR 120	Visual Technology	3
AR 130	Graphic Design I	3
AR 151	Printmaking I	3
AR 171	Sculpture I	3
AR 202	Drawing II	3
AR 212	Art History I	3
AR 213	Art History II	3
AR 220	Typography & Design	3
AR 231	Graphic Design II: Web & Motion Graphics	3
CS 103	Introduction To Web Site Development	3
AR 331	Graphic Design III	3
AR 415	Art & Design Thesis	3
Select one of the following:		3
AR 109	Art Environments
AR 141	Painting I
AR 161	Ceramics I
AR 206	Photography II
AR 250	Advanced Visual Technology
AR 295	Survey Of Mexican Culture Today
Total Hours		48

All Graphic Design majors should elect AR 101 Introduction To Art for their core curriculum fine arts requirement. Though it is not required, the graphic design student should plan to take AR 425 Art & Design Internship Art Internship. Other recommended courses for Graphic Design are AR 280 Video on the Computer or BK 208 Principles Of Marketing.

Academic Requirements

All Graphic Design majors must earn a grade of C- and above in all required courses for the major.

Art and Design Minor

With the number of course choices available in the Art & Design Minor, it is possible for a student to specialize in either Fine Arts or Graphic Design.

AR 102	Drawing I	3
AR 103	Art & Graphic Design Fundamentals	3
Select one of the following:		3
AR 212	Art History I
AR 213	Art History II
Any other four Art and Design courses except for AR 101		12
Total Hours		21

All Art & Design minors should elect AR 101 Introduction To Art for their core curriculum fine arts requirement.

The following is the typical sequence of courses required for the major*:

Freshman
Fall	Hours	Winter	Hours	Spring	Hours
AR 102	3	AR 101	3	AR 103	3
AR 120	3			Domain	3
Writing Competency	4			CO 101	3
Portal	3			Domain or Elective	3
				Domain or Elective	3
	13		3		15
Sophomore
Fall	Hours	Winter	Hours	Spring	Hours
AR 106	3	Math Competency	3	AR 171	3
AR 151	3			AR 213	3
AR 130	3			AR 220	3
Domain or Elective	3			Domain or Elective	3
Domain or Elective	3			Domain or Elective	3
	15		3		15
Junior
Fall	Hours	Winter	Hours	Spring	Hours
AR 212	3	AR 290	3	AR 202	3
Major Elective	3			AR 231	3
BK 300 (or other elective)	3			AR 425	3
Domain or Elective	3			Domain or Elective	3
Domain or Elective	3
	15		3		12
Senior
Fall	Hours	Winter	Hours	Spring	Hours
AR 415	3	Domain or Elective	3	AR 331	3
CD 007 (Recommended)	1			Major Elective	3
Domain or Elective	3			Domain or Elective	3
Domain or Elective	3			AR 445 (or Elective)	3
Domain or Elective	3			ME 450	1
	13		3		13
Total Hours: 123

Note: Elective courses could be used for a second major, a minor, a course of interest, internship or study abroad experience.

Note: See the Curriculum section for more information on Portal, Competency, Domain, and Capstone courses.

*Disclaimer

The course offerings, requirements, and policies of Mount Mercy University are under continual examination and revision. This Catalog presents the offerings, requirements, and policies in effect at the time of publication and in no way guarantees that the offerings, requirements, and policies will not change.

This plan of study represents a typical sequence of courses required for this major. It may not be applicable to every student. Students should contact a department faculty member to be sure of appropriate course sequence.